🇳🇿 7 Days of Food, Wine & Stunning Sights in North Island New Zealand (and not on a tour bus)
A Culinary Exploration of New Zealand’s North Island
Do you love sipping a beverage from a sky-high city? How about an immersive culinary adventure? Or a private wine tasting room?
Begin your experience in Auckland with a local food journey weaving together people, stories, and seasonal tastes.
Then travel south aboard the iconic Northern Explorer train, where panoramic views showcase the heart of New Zealand’s North Island.
In Martinborough, delight in acclaimed vineyards and gourmet pairings showcasing local cuisine.
Finally, unwind in Wellington— exploring vibrant galleries and shops. There’s a reason it’s known as New Zealand’s capital of cool.
Do you crave memorable travel experiences? Every day of this journey is crafted for you to experience the people, sights, and unforgettable flavors of New Zealand.
Day by Day
Days 1–3: Auckland
Day 4: Train to Wellington
Days 5–6: Wellington & Martinborough
Day 7: Departure from Wellington
Suggested Itinerary
✈️ Day 1: Arrive in Auckland & Settle In
Kia Ora! Depending on your travel schedule, I’ll arrange a private airport greeter and driver to meet you and craft an ideal first day with time to relax and stroll the waterfront.
🏙️ Day 2: A Day in Auckland (aka City of Sails)
Explore Auckland at your leisure: consider visiting the iconic Sky Tower, Auckland War Memorial Museum, the lush Domain gardens, or taking a Harbour cruise.
I’ll construct the experience based on your top travel priorities.
🍽️ Day 3: Locals-Only Culinary Tour
Enjoy a curated culinary experience across Auckland’s neighborhoods, meet local food artisans, savor seasonal dishes, and dive into the city’s vibrant food culture with a private guide or local partner Big Foody.
I suggest catching an All Blacks rugby match or I’ll arrange a personalized tour at the All Blacks Experience.
🚂 Day 4: Northern Explorer Train to Wellington
Embark on the Northern Explorer rail journey through dramatic landscapes—lush valleys, volcanic peaks, and the iconic Raurimu Spiral—before arriving in the capital, Wellington.
I suggest booking a Scenic-Plus carriage to enjoy an open-air carriage and 360-degree window views for the full experience.
🎨 Day 5: Explore Wellington (aka Welly)
Discover New Zealand’s capital: ride the Cable Car, enjoy a private tour of Te Papa Museum, explore the vibrant art scene with prominent museums and galleries, and unwind along the lively waterfront.
I’ll optimize your day based on your top travel priorities.
🍷 Day 6: Martinborough Wine & Foodie Tour
Travel with a private driver to the charming Wairarapa wine region. Indulge in boutique wineries like Tiwaiwaka Wines and gourmet local produce on a guided foodie tour with Zozo.
The region is especially known for its pinot noirs. Many wineries are within walking or cycling distance of the village square for those who want to explore on two wheels.
👋 Day 7: Farewell from Wellington
Ease into your final day with a leisurely café stop…Wellington is known as the coffee capital of NZ, boasting more cafes per capita than NYC.
I’ll arrange transportation ahead of time, so your departure is stress-free.
Where to Stay: SO/Auckland
A bold, design-forward hotel offering a striking urban retreat in the heart of downtown Auckland.
Set across 16 levels, it boasts sweeping views of the Waitematā Harbour and city skyline, placing guests at the vibrant center of it all. Just steps from luxury boutiques and the waterfront, this stylish stay blends fashion, flair, and unbeatable location for a truly elevated Auckland experience.
💬 Let me book your stay and enjoy VIP perks such as:
⭐$100 resort credit ⭐daily breakfast ⭐upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible
Where to Stay: Park Hyatt Auckland
Park Hyatt Auckland offers a refined waterfront escape, perfectly positioned on the edge of Wynyard Quarter with panoramic views over the Lighter Basin and Waitematā Harbour.
This sophisticated 5-star residence features 195 elegantly appointed rooms, four world-class restaurants and bars, serene event spaces, a luxurious day spa, a 25-metre infinity pool, and a fully equipped fitness center.
💬 Let me book your stay and enjoy VIP perks such as:
⭐$100 resort credit ⭐daily breakfast ⭐upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible
Where to Stay: Sofitel Wellington
Sofitel Wellington is a 5-star retreat that blends contemporary luxury with the natural charm of New Zealand’s capital. Set beside lush botanic gardens, the hotel is centrally located near Parliament, high-end shopping, and Sky Stadium.
Elegant rooms and suites offer a peaceful escape, featuring plush bedding and premium amenities. Guests can enjoy access to Club Sofitel, with daily breakfast, all-day refreshments, afternoon tea, and evening canapés in a relaxed, refined setting.
💬 Let me book your stay and enjoy VIP perks such as:
⭐$100 resort credit ⭐daily breakfast ⭐upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible
Bonus: The Landing
The Landing Residences in the Bay of Islands offer four luxurious, private retreats set within a stunning coastal estate. Guests enjoy personalised service, fine food and wine from the on-site vineyard, and access to six private beaches for swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
Explore the region on a cultural cruise aboard Iti Rangi, or chase big game on the luxury fishing vessel Ata Rangi. Enjoy wine tasting, vineyard walks, and in the evening, a torch-lit kiwi-spotting experience—an unforgettable connection to New Zealand’s natural heritage.
Getting Here 🇳🇿
✈️ Airlines such as Air New Zealand, Qantas, American, United, and Delta offer nonstop flights to New Zealand from major North American cities— including Chicago, Dallas, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, New York (JFK), and Vancouver.
🧭 Let me take care of the flight research and booking so you can focus on what you’re most excited to see, do, and taste first.
⭐ This is a sample itinerary and everything is customizable for your highest (and lowest) travel priorities. Get in touch to start planning! ⭐
